Mr. Barnes outlines the EU policies that have led to sustained levels of coal usage in Europe, arguing that something has gone wrong if cleaner burning natural gas has seen its share decline. But using more gas in power generation is a simple, low-cost solution for reducing carbon emissions as Europe makes the transition to renewables.

"Not only is the gas-fired capacity already there, but it is by definition already connected to the grid, so unlike either new renewable or nuclear capacity it can make a difference to emissions starting tomorrow," he writes.

The planned Nord Stream 2 Pipeline is poised to deliver the additional gas required by this scenario at a competitive price, saving a potential 160 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year if used to replace coal. The benefits of choosing this modern infrastructure option are "too big to be ignored," Mr. Barnes says.